European Council President Antonio Costa on Tuesday said the conclusion of a comprehensive trade agreement between the European Union and India carried special personal significance for him, citing his Indian heritage and long-standing connection to the country. The agreement was announced following high-level talks in New Delhi, where Costa addressed a joint press conference alongside Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Speaki

United States Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has accused European nations of indirectly financing Russia’s war in Ukraine by purchasing refined oil products originating from Russian crude processed in India. His remarks come amid ongoing geopolitical tensions over energy trade and sanctions linked to the conflict in Eastern Europe. In an interview aired on Sunday, Bessent alleged that while European leaders publicly condemn Russia’s actions in Ukraine, their trade practices ar

Venezuela’s interim leadership is facing mounting domestic and international scrutiny as acting President Delcy Rodríguez sharply criticised sustained pressure from the United States and provided updated figures on political prisoner releases, figures that remain contested by human rights organisations and independent observers. Rodríguez’s remarks reflect broader tensions over sovereignty, human rights and the direction of Venezuela’s transitional government following the capture of for

Tensions across West Asia intensified after allied militant groups aligned with Iran issued sharp warnings to the United States following the deployment of American warships to the region. Lebanon-based Hezbollah, Yemen’s Houthi movement, and Iraqi militias signaled that any military action against Iran would trigger a wider regional confrontation, underscoring the growing volatility as Washington weighs its next steps amid unrest inside Iran. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem cautione

The United States has deployed the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying warships to the Middle East, a move aimed at reinforcing American military capabilities in a region marked by escalating political and security tensions. The announcement was made on Monday, January 26, by US Central Command, which said the carrier strike group’s presence is intended to support regional security and stability while enhancing both offensive and defensive readiness. Accordin

Gold prices surged to a fresh all-time high on Monday, crossing the $5,100 per ounce mark as investors increasingly turned to the precious metal for safety amid escalating geopolitical tensions and growing concerns over global fiscal stability. The rally extended gold’s record-breaking run, reinforcing its role as a preferred hedge during periods of uncertainty in financial markets. Spot gold climbed as much as 2.4 percent to trade near $5,102 per ounce, equivalent to approximatel

India’s 77th Republic Day was marked on Monday, January 26, 2026, with a wide range of greetings from global leaders and prominent international figures, reflecting the country’s growing diplomatic influence and expanding partnerships across regions. Messages from political leaders, senior officials, and business figures highlighted shared democratic values, strategic cooperation, and the importance of dialogue in an increasingly complex global environment. The Republic Day cele

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended greetings to India on the occasion of its Republic Day, underscoring the importance of the bilateral partnership and highlighting areas of close cooperation between the two countries. In his message, Rubio emphasized that sustained engagement across strategic sectors continues to yield tangible outcomes for both nations and the broader Indo-Pacific region. Rubio described the relationship as a historic bond strengthened by collab

The Union Government on the occasion of Republic Day announced the Padma Awards 2026, approving a total of 131 civilian honours across the three prestigious categories – Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri. These awards, among India’s highest civilian recognitions, honour individuals for exceptional service and contributions across diverse fields such as arts, cinema, literature, sports, medicine, science and engineering, social work, civil service, public affairs, and trade and

India will celebrate its 77th Republic Day on Monday, January 26, 2026, at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, commemorating the historic adoption of the Constitution of India in 1950. Republic Day symbolizes India’s transformation into a sovereign, democratic republic and reinforces the constitutional values of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. The national celebrations will feature a grand ceremonial parade, cultural showcases, military displays and citizen participation, reflecting Indi

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has strongly criticised remarks made by US President Donald Trump regarding the role of NATO troops in Afghanistan, calling the comments “insulting and frankly appalling” and suggesting that an apology is warranted. Starmer said that the remarks had caused deep pain to the families of those who served and to individuals who were killed or injured during the conflict. He emphasized that statements of this kind undermine the sacrifices made by international

Spain has formally joined India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, marking a significant diplomatic development that strengthens India’s expanding leadership role in the Indo-Pacific region and deepens cooperation with European partners. Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares handed over Spain’s Declaration of Accession to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in New Delhi earlier this week, officially confirming Spain’s entry into the India-led framework launched in 2019. The m

Amazon is poised for a new round of layoffs, expected to affect as many as 16,000 employees, adding to the 14,000 roles eliminated in the previous round. These job cuts come as part of Amazon's broader restructuring plan, aimed at streamlining its operations and becoming more efficient, particularly in light of shifting demands in the tech industry and the growing influence of artificial intelligence. The latest wave of layoffs is set to target several core teams, including those at Amazon We

Good cholesterol, also known as HDL, is crucial in protecting your heart and maintaining overall cardiovascular health. However, it often doesn't receive the attention it deserves in regular health discussions. With the rise in cardiovascular diseases among Indians, understanding how to improve HDL levels has become more important than ever. In an exclusive interview with cardiologist Dr. Praveen Chandra, he shared valuable insights on the significance of HDL, why medications aren't the best

The prolonged delay in H-1B visa stamping that began in December has continued into the new year, with no signs of immediate relief for thousands of skilled workers dependent on timely consular processing. No new interview slots have been opened at US consulates in India, and applicants are now receiving notifications that their previously scheduled appointments are being deferred as far as 2027, intensifying anxiety among visa holders and employers alike. Immigration attorneys and

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in a high-level conversation that emphasized the continued growth and future potential of the India-Brazil Strategic Partnership. During the discussion, Prime Minister Modi expressed his anticipation of welcoming President Lula to India in the near future, underscoring the importance of strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation across economic, technological and geopolitical fronts. Modi des

On Thursday, January 22, President Donald Trump officially signed the founding charter of the Board of Peace, a newly announced international body designed to promote conflict resolution and global stability. The signing ceremony took place on the sidelines of a major international economic and political gathering, drawing participation from leaders and representatives of multiple nations. President Trump was joined on stage by delegates from 19 founding member countries, formally inaugurating t

The United Arab Emirates is set to host a historic round of trilateral discussions involving Ukraine, the United States and Russia, marking a potentially significant development in international efforts to end the prolonged conflict in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the upcoming talks while addressing global leaders and policymakers during a high-profile economic forum in Davos, describing the meeting as the first instance where representatives from all three sides wi